Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors in Salima, Malawi, where the sun shines with intensity. With the climate classified as Aw, this region experiences significant UV exposure, particularly between 10 AM and 2 PM when levels can soar to 11 on the UV Index scale. By being aware of these UV fluctuations, individuals can effectively prevent sunburn and safeguard their skin health. Knowing when to seek shade or apply sunscreen is essential in combatting the harmful effects of UV rays, ensuring you enjoy the beauty of Salima’s sunny days while keeping your skin safe.
As the sun rises, the UV Index climbs steadily, starting at a gentle 1 at 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it reaches 3, marking the beginning of increased sun exposure. The day continues to heat up, with the index peaking at a remarkable 11 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, indicating a high risk for harm from unprotected sun exposure. As the afternoon sets in, it gradually declines, dropping to 6 by 2:00 PM and subsequently to 3 by 3:00 PM. As the sun begins to descend, the index returns to a safer 1 by 4:00 PM and tapers off to 0 after 6:00 PM. This hourly trend underscores the importance of sun protection during the midday hours when the UV exposure is at its highest.
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 10:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV exposure remains extremely high in the early months, with a consistent UV Index of 16 from January to March, resulting in a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes. As spring approaches, the UV Index decreases slightly but stays significant, dropping to 14 in April and 11 in May. The summer months of June and July see a slight moderation to a very high UV Index of 9, extending the burn time to 15 minutes. However, UV levels spike back to 11 in August and range from 13 to 14 from September to November, maintaining a high risk for sunburn, with burn times reverting to 10 minutes. In December, the UV Index rises again to 15, continuing the trend of high UV exposure. Visitors and residents are strongly advised to take necessary precautions during these high-risk months, including using broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade to minimize the risk of harmful UV exposure.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blantyre UVI | 17 | 17 | 16 | 12 | 10 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 14 | 15 |
| Zomba UVI | 17 | 17 | 16 | 13 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 15 | 15 |
| Salima | 16 | 16 | 16 | 14 | 11 | 9 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 15 |
| Lilongwe UVI | 17 | 17 | 16 | 14 | 11 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 15 | 16 |
| Mzuzu UVI | 16 | 16 | 16 | 15 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 14 | 16 |
| Kasungu UVI | 16 | 17 | 16 | 14 | 11 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 15 | 16 |